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DIVINITY SCHOOL 


LIBRARY 


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i" as ‘TWO SERMONS, 


PREACHED AT SANDWICH, 
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THE FIRST, 
Fesrvary 16, 1813, ON A 


St DAY. OF FASTING, 


APPOINTED BY THE FIRST CHURCH IN THAT TOWN. 


THE SECOND, 


Eres. 17, 1813, AT. THE 


INSTALLATION 


OF REV. JONATHAN BURR, A. M. 
Pastor of the First Church in Sandwich, 


TO THE CARE OF THE CALVINISTIC CONGREGATIONAL SOCIETY 
LATELY ASSOCIATED WITH THAT CHURCH. 


BY OLIVER R COBB, A. M. 
Pastor of the First Church in Rochester. 


ALSO, 


THE CHARGE, 
BY REV. MR. EVERITT OF WAREHAM, 


l AND THE 


RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP, 
BY THE REV. MR. LINCOLN OF FALMOUTH. 


Published by request of said Church and Society, and the profits to be appropriated to theit benefit. ~! 


BOSTON: 


PRINTED & SOLD BY LINCOLN & EDMAND‘., 
No. 53 Cornhill....1813.. 


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‘ whereby the ehurch, consisting of between tw 


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FOR the information of those who are not a 
Pi comolaee Bs a a oned the ensuing lis 
ing extracts are here inserted, froma Cire 
first Church in Sandwich to the friends of Zio 
the erection of a new Meeting House. 


«On the 18th of July, 1811, the Parish fin Sandw 
by a small majority, to close the meeting- 
Rev. Mr. Burr, and to engage another preache 


members, has been reduced to the painful alter 
ing a preacher, in whose appointment they 
whose doctrines they cannot approve, or, me 
dwelling house, in which many cannot hear, 2 
modated. . For more than nineteen months 
ter alternative—have experienced great incor 
considerable expense—have made every exertior 
duty dictated, to recover our former right in thi 
sonage, &c.—and are at length constrained to 
success while we remain united with the parish, u we 
a right, in our view, infinitely more valu of 
own miuister., A new society has lately been fo jae 
with the church, by the name of the Calvinistie Con 
ciety in Sandwich, over which, by their unanimous desir 
tor was installed on the 17th inst. © 
«Though our loss in point of property, | inside’ 
stances, 1s yery great, yet we trust we are enak 
to take joyfully the spoiling of our goods, for con 
parsonage and parish property, exclusive of the 
worth from 245. to 330. dollars a year. About hal 
meeting-house were owned by the church and 
with it, amounting to upwards of 2,500 dollars. a 


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2 CHRONICLES xxv. 9. 
a < But what shall we do for the hundred talents ?” 


THE enmity, which was put between the seed of the serpent and 
the seed of the woman, continues... God has repeatedly notified his 
people of it, and cautioned them against any alliances, or communi- 
ty of interests with the world, which may prove a snare to their souls, 
or prevent a distinction between those, who serve the Lord, and those, 
who do not. This distinction was early made, between believing 
Abel and unbelieving Cain : God accepting the person and sacrifice 
of the former ; and rejecting the person and sacrifice of the latter. 

Tn the family of pious Seth, God had. a chosen seed, among whom 
his worship was attended. 

The descendants of Cain, in this. respeet, were very different. 
They paid no regard to God and religion ; their minds were engross~= 
ed in pursuing the curious arts of the world, dn accumulating riches, 
and in making a splendid figure, 

By these gaudy trifles, the descendants of believing Seth were en- 
snared, They courted alliances with that ungodly race, i ntermarried bs 

_ with them, &c. Gen. vi. 2. The sons of God saw the daughters ‘of ne Bi 
men, that they were fair; 4 they took. ghiem wives of we which ‘ ¢' dic 
they chose. ( Oo 

This unnatural connexion was of no spittle ndvantacké to aiid 
party. The children, who were the fruits of their iter arriages, 
were many of them mighty men, men of renown, giants in worldly 
wisdom and policy; but the wickedness of man, also became great 
in the earth, and the general deluge soon succeeded. 

The evils resulting from any intimate connexions between the 
friends of God and his enemies, are too numerous to particularize, 

Such contiexions have uniformly tended to increase wickedness and 
draw down the judgments of Heaven. Hence, Jehovalr prohibited 
Israel, under severe penalties, from —s any entangling alliances " 
with the heathen. 
te, Balaam, though he was not suffered to curse Israel, knew and 
taught Balak, how the curse of God might be brought | upon them. 
This project was carried into execution by the Moabites, when they 
_ enticed the children of Israel to their'scenes of merriment and idola- 
_ trous feasts. For thus dishonouring God by their licentiousness, : 
parent a a was ey the people, i 


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“maintained the worship of God in. some degree of 


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After the ten tribes revolted Abo the house Sof I 


under the specious pretext of accommodating t fg intro 
idolatry. He set up two calves, the one in Bet » the “other in Da 


and proclaimed, These be thy gods, O Israel. ; ‘as 
From this time, the ten tribes were awfully <i Jud ah and — A 
Benjamin, though partially infected with idolatry yet pi) 


hoshaphat joined affinity with wicked Ahab. oved as 
to Judah. The idols of Israel were in this a sduced, and 
Jehoshaphat, though a pious prince, was not able to” prevent the dire- 
ful effects of this entangling alliance. These evils increased after his 
death ; so that a genuine daughter of idolatrous Jezabel, vee six 
years over Judah, a 

In the chapter containing our text, we have an account bonis. 
ziah king of Judah, collected his forces, to ee with the Edomites, 
He also hired’a huiidlred thousand men of Israel, to whom he adv ne= , 


ed a hundred talents of silver, , But there came a man of God 


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saying, O king, let not the arm Israel go with thee, for t Lied 
iar ( with Touch But if mr go, Bs it; ‘ew daraahe thee 
fall before the enemy ; for God hath power to help and to cast down. 
And Amaziah said to the man of God, but what = we do for ” 
hundred talents, which I have given to the army of VF 
Amaziah appears to have been convinced that bed was 
from God ; and he was afraid to.d‘sobey, Still, ho ever, 
was deeply impressed with the advanced pay of ane (sraclih. 
deemed it an object of umportance, in some way or thers) 
hundred talents, if possible. ; 
The disciples of Christ, it is believed, are many times in 
embarrassment, similar to that of Amaziah, arising from their im- 
proper connexion with the world. It is manifests that many calcula 
tions in religion are made from maxims of worldly wisdom, prudence 


) and. interest. ‘The passage before us, in this point of view, contains 


portant instruction, "ee 
‘Had Amaziah consulted the sacred oracles, or asked counsel of | i) 
God, prior to his engagement with the Israelites, he mi have — 
hisavdd his frundred talen Witnine. 2e —_. 


Pron 5 


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So the disciples of Jesus, if they were attentive to his 
would have no commanity of interest, in religious m 


ctions, 
with his | 


_ enemies, The church isa body separate from the world, d should 


transact its own affairs in a separate capacity. rt 

But our subject leads us to that state of christians, ian lias aris- 
en from want of such’ precautionary measures, And what is to be 
done ? Christ has directed those, who would be his disciples, to t 
the cost, Luke xiv. 28,, For which of you, jn ee to bittld a tow- 
er, sitteth not down first and counteth the cost, er he have suf= 
Jictent to finish it ? Jesus has shown us, that ieilacr to be his disci- 
pies, our hearts must set lightly by the world ; that ‘we must -Tepounce 
its gaudy vanities, deny ourselves, and take up the cr ‘These 
‘things are trying to those, wha are making their religio pi leulations 
in dollars and cents ; who are afraid of the frowns, and living on 
the smiles of the world... But he b usin ess of the ing 1 is to trust 
in the Lord and de good ; and not bi 


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tis presumed, that, in general, there is a rational conviction of* 
trath and duty ;’ while, at the same time, attachment to the world 
prompts the inquiry, What shall we do for the hundred talents ? 

Nor, is this disposition confined to hypocrites and formatists ; the 
infection spreads and manifests itself, in some degree, among true 
christians. Rather than relinquish the favour of the world, christians 
are almost persuaded, at the expense of conformity, and even submis- 
sion to the world, to cement their uuhallowed connexion with it. 
Christians are in danger : with christians, therefore, we shall begin. 
And as { wish to be tried and proved myself, 1 shall set ministers of 
the gospel at the head of the list. 

1. Ministers of Christ are in danger of deviating from the path of 
duty, through an improper attachment to the world. It is weil 
known to the true servant of Christ, that a rigid adherence to the re- 
quiremenis of his Master, is not the road to popularity, wealth or 
preferment. He is fully sensible, that the rich, great and noble are 
not generally pleased with the doctrines of the cross. He morsover 
knows, that, He, who provideth not for his own, especially those of 
his own house, hath denied the faith and.is worse than an infidel. 
And what is necessary, but to compromise matters with the worid ? 
This may be done, by keeping back part of God’s truth, and put- 
ing a gloss 0G part. Here is a temptation to the mental inquiry, at 
least, What shall I do? 

Suppose by earnestly contending for the faith, which was once de- 
livered to the saiuts, a minister loses friends and gets enemies. Friend- 


ship is truly desirable, To have men become our enemies, and re- 


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proach and reyvile us, in itself considered, is painful. In such cir- 
cumstances, trying indeed to the christian minister, the inquiry is 
naturally suggested, What shall I doito secure peace and friendship, 
which [ value more than the hundred talents ? 

Suppose further, the servant of Christ, by teaching the things 
which become sound doctrine, in a plain distinguishing manner, is 
deprived of his living, the stipulated support of his family, Will it 
not be extremely natural, humanly speaking, for him to look about 


him and inquire, What shall we do for the hundred talents? ‘This 


temptation is great, and, itis to be feared, is sometimes too powerful ; 
always would be, if ministers caleulated by the world’s arithmetic. 
And if, by grace, ministers are kept from actually deserting the 
standard of their Lord, and setting up that of his enemies, still the 
hundred talents may have amazing weight on the mind. Against 


this worldly, selfish, satanic influence, the ministers of Jesus should 


watch and pray, and pray and watch. 

2. Private christians, allow me to direct your attention to this 
subject. Are you not led, at times, to make the inquiry in the seuse 
of the text, What shall we do for the hundred talents ? The scrip- 
tures direet you respecting the ground which you should take, if you 
would be followers of Christ. Be not conformed to this world. 
Love not. the world, nor the things that are in the werld. 2 Cor, vi. 
14—17. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers ; for 
what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness 2 and what 
communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath 
Christ with Belial ? or what part hath he that believeth with an infi- 
del ? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? Sc, 


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Wherefore, come out from among them and be ye separate, saith he 


Lord, and touch not the unclean thing. ‘ a. 
These passages do not imply, that christians must have no com-= 
munity of interest with the world. They do not prohibit their en- 
deavours, so far as consistent with duty to God, to maintain a neig! 
bourly, kind and friendly intercourse with the world. Hence: 
apostle exhorts, Zf it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peac 
bly with all men. Do good to all men, as you have opportunity. The 
prohibition of conformity to the warld, does not relate to the com- — 
mon courtesies of life, and connexion with the world in eivil and ~ 
secular matters ; but solely to the things of religion. In these there + 
is no union of sentiment, feeling nor interest between the believer and — 
unbeliever. In every thing, therefore, which directly or indirectly 
affects the state of religion, God requires his people to be sepa- 
rate from the world, ih a! 
Christ, the great captain of our salvation, under his sorest tempta- 
tions, yielded not a single point to his enemies ; and therefore tri- 
umphed over them. He has set us an example, that we should 
low his steps. The rules of his kingdom, touching the point under 


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mony in society, give up some points, conform a littlé to the , 9 ; 


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tians. Aud God intends that his people shall be tried ; and 
they shall through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of - 


en. Our Lord was tempted, he was told by the great deceiver, th 
all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them should be ed , 
he would fall down and worship him. Jesus rejected the offer with 
disdain, and spurned the tempter from him, — : . silt 
If our obligations of strict obedience to Christ might ever be dis- — 
pensed with in any instance, they surely might when life is in danger. — 
But, even in this case, it is not admissible ; and the followers of — 
Christ must take up their cross. é, | Pe 
Let those who profess to be christians, be ashamed to inquire, _ 
What shall we do for the hundred talents ? when Jesus does not al- 
jow them to inquire, What shall we do to save our lives ? Obedience 
to Christ should supersede every other consi iat. | 
having spoken of bonds and afflictions, ob: cts 20, 24, Bu 


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none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto my- 
sé Ce 

» % We would Slisersie that the hundred.talents, the friendship, fa= 
vour and interest of the world, are a dead weight with hypocrites, 
formalists and all impenitent sinners, Some indeed manifest little 
concern about the business ; they are determined to secure the hun- 
dred talents, without regard to what God requires, or what he forbids. 
Persons of this description, where the ight of the gospel has been 
diffused, it is believed, are not numerous, 

Far the greater part of those, who live without God in the world, 
have seasons of conviction—have divine truth impressed on their 
minds with awful weight and solemnity—have seasons of trembling 
like Felix. But the world with its amusements, pleasures, riches and 
honours, bid serious impressions go their way. The doctrines and 
duties of christianity are too self-denying for the carnal mind. 

And yet, the awakened sinner is reluctant at giving up all thoughts 
of religion and the well being of hissoul. But still, the hundred 
talents bear down every thing, i in favour of satan’s kingdom. 

Carnal reasons, like the following, occupy different minds, to jus- 
tify the neglect of the one thing needful. I shall lose my gay com- 
panions and scenes of merriment—I shall be despised and ridiculed, 
as other christians are—I shall have enemies—I shall be injured in 
my property, perhaps, reduced to infamy and want. Iam almost 

_persuaded, that christianity is the way to heaven ; bt, What shall £ 
do respecting the expenses of the journey ? 

In this way men lose their souls, They either’ ‘turn aside and ens 
tirely follow their worldly schemes ; or attempt to effect a comprom- 
ise between God and mammon. They try to believe, that allowances 
will be made in certain cases—that,, as God is merciful, he will not 
mark small deviations from the path of rectitude—that Christ did 
not come into the world to abridge happiness ; and finally, that un- 
der their peculiar circumstances, they may hope for mercy without 
being so precise, so strict in religion: which is, in effect, saying, 
that they can be saved without denying ‘themselves, taking ™p the 
cross, and forsaking all for Christ. 

If- this kind of religion would answer, the world would be full of 
religion. If all our idols might be retained, if we would be so char- _ 
itable towards one another, as to allow, that. doctrinal sentiments are 
of no great importance, and that persons may go to heaven, whether 
they are regenerated or not, provided their external conduct be civil . 
and moral : if we could be agreed i in these things, we might all walk 
together, each in the name ‘of his god. Satan, no doubt, would be 
well pleased with such a coalition ; but how would it answer at the 
bar of Christ ? Has he ever thus degraded his religion? No: there 
is nota single passage in the Book i God, which tolerates such a 
motley mixture. 

God has laid the foundation for re pardon and happiness of sin- 
ners, He has proposed the terms, on which he will accept them ; 
these terms are reasonable, equitable, merciful. And he will not 
recede from them. ~The hundred talents must be given up. James: 
iv. 4, Ye adulterers and adultresses, know ye not that the friendship 
of the world is enmity with God ?. Whosoever, therefore, will be « 
Sriend of the world is the enemy of God. 


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This is one reason, why pure religion is so unpopulat ; it will not 
yield to the carnal feelings aud erroneous views of naturalmen, It 
will not allow chem to secure the hundred talents. And another rea- 
son of its unpopularity is, that it imputes the salvation of sinners,en= 
tirely, to distinguishing’grace. In the first respect, it points out the — 
reasonable duty of man ; in the last respect, it lays his pride and selfs 
importance in the dust. Hence, however pleasing men’s schemes may _ 
be, God's scheme is always displeasing, till persons are born of the 
Spirit, and become new creatures. ‘Till this change takes place, the 
hundred talents will keep the ascendency in the mind, bearing men 
down to perdition. 7 

I would entreat you to think of one solemn query of our Lord, 

What shall it profit a man if he gain the.whole world and lose his own 7 
soul ? or, what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? And, 

I would observe that the hundred talents are safe, if you will 
take God's security for them. TH. 

To Amaziah’s inquiry, the man of God answered, The Lord is 
able to give thee much more than this. Wwe 

So I am authorized to assure you, that the Lord is able to refund 
all, which you relinquish in obedience to him. Do you not know, 
that God has all property in his hand ? That all the treasures of 
earth and heaven are his, in the most absolute sense ? Do you not 
know, that riches and honours are at his disposal? Do you not 
know that the hearts of all are in his hand—that he can bind the 
hands of your enemies, so that they cannot injure you ; or change 
their hearts, so that they will become your cordial friends ? 

Perhaps, it will be answered ; yes, we know that God is able to do 
all these things ; but wild he do them? Yes, I reply, he will do 
them. We have his cbligation for it in the Sacred Volume. “Matt. 
vi. 33. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness 7 
and all these things shall be added unto you. 

And God will repay you in kiud too, in blessings of this world for 
all which you relinquish in support of his cause. "The case of Solo- 
mon is in point. He did not give himself anxiety about the hundred 
talents ; but asked for wisdom. God granted his request ; and be- 
cause he made this judicious choice, God gave him that which n"y.08 
mot asked, riches and honour superior to any of the kings, And the 
very reason assigned for it, is, because he had not chosen these things, 
but chosen wisdom. Ty 

The prophet Haggai, reproving the neglect of the people to build 
the Lord’s house, assures them that the Lord had sent judgments, 
blasting and mildew, and cut short their increase, on account of their 
covetousness. And by the same prophet God assumes his right to. 
their property. Hag. ii. 8, 9. The silver is mine, and the gold is 
mine. The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the for- 
mer, saith the Lord of hosts ; and in this place will I give peace, 
saith the Lord of hosts. Our Lord declared, Luke xvii, 29, 30. 
Verily I say unto you, There is no man, that hath left house, or par- 
ents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, _ 
who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the 
world to come life everlasting. Will this obligation answer ? — 


. 
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God calls upon people to make sacrifices in his cause, to try them 
and prove them. It is not because he needs their property, nor be- 
cause he intends they shall eventually lose any thing in bis service. 
He can give them much more than all which they relinquish for the 
advancement of religion; yea, an hundred fold more, even in this 
life. ; 

A man never had his days shortened, by being willing to lay 
dowa his life for Christ’s sake. There is an appointed time to man 
upon the earth. Aud Civist hath assured us, He that will save his 
life shall lose it; but he that will lose his life for my sake, shalt 
Jind tt. ; 

Nothing is wanting to secure the blessings of time and eternity, 
but faith which worketh by love. This will secure the hundred tal- 
ents and much more. But if any will court the favour of men, and 
compromise matters with the world, they will lose their souls, and, 
probably, the hundred talents »esides. 

It becomes us, thea, to iavour and suffer reproach; to make every 
temporal sacrifice, and endure every hardship, rather than make a 
single attempt to accommodate the doctrines of the cross, and the 
duties of religion to the carnal mind. It becomes us to stand fast 5 
earnestly contend for the faith ; trust in the Lord, and do good, 


a 
INFERENCES, 


1. Inthe light of this subject, we may see at what a low rate men 
are bartering away their souls! The objects of time and sense en- 
gross their affections, and the pearl of great price is neglected. One 
has purchased a farm, another a yoke of oxen, another has married a 
wife ; therefore, when Christ calls, They all with one consent begin 
to make excuse. Wause a moment—Reflect on the shortness of life ; 
your inability to secure one of its comforts; the solemn account 
which you must hereafter give; and say, .whether you are not 
trifling away eternal things ! 

2. Christians should be roused and animated by this subject. 
Realize, that God will take care of whatever you relinquish for the 
- eause of truth and righteousness, and in his own good time and way 
will restore it. Be ashamed ever to inquire, even in your hearts, 
What shall we do for the hundred talents 2? The ten thousand talents 
spent in satan’s service, are not spent with reluctance. The man of 
pleasure does not count the cost of his sensual gratification ; the 
drunkard does not count the cost of his excesses; young people do 
not count the cost of their vain, sinful amusements. In these, and’a 
great variety of ways, the wicked make great sacrifices without cal- 
culating. 

But, if such costly sacrifices are offered to the god of this world, of- 
fered with pleasure ; awake, O christian, and zealously engage in the 
cause of the glorious Redeemer. The liberal man deviseth liberal 
things, and by liberal things shall he stand. 

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When we reflect on our standing in the vineyard of God ; that 
the Sun of righteousness has shined, and the dews of grace descend- 
ed on us ; and yet, how little fruit we have brought forth ; we must — 
feel the propriety of humiliation, fasting and prayer: for which 
solemn purpose, the church in this place have set apart this day, 
May we, with united hearts, keep the day. May we, like God’s 
people of old, Seek a right way for ourselves and our little ones. 
And may the prayers, offered up for the church at large, and the af- 
flicted branch of it in this place, ascend like incense before God.* 


> 


* This sermon was delivered in the afternoon, the former part of the day 


having been spent in prayers and short exhortations, by other ministers 
present. 


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INSTALLATION SERMON. 


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NEHEMIAH Vi. 8. 


“Tam doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should 
the work cease, whilst I leave tt, and come down to you 2” 


THE great work, to which this passage refers, was the rebuilding 
of Jerusalem, after the seventy years captivity at Babylon. En- 
couraged by the decree of Cyrus, and stirred up by the Spirit of 
God, Zerubbabel and ethers returned to the holy land, and began 
with spirit their pious undertaking. But meeting with many dis- 
couragemeiats, their zeal abated, their labours relaxed, and they came 
to the conclusion, that the time was not come, the set time, that the 
Lord’s house should be built. At length, aroused from their leth- 
argy, and animated by the prophets of God, Haggai and Zechariah, 
they “ona the Temple ; but the walls and gates of the city were 
in ruins, till Nehemiah obtained permission and encouragement 
from the king of Persia, to go to Jerusalem and superintend the 
building. 

This Late a favourable turn to the affairs of the Jews; and under 
the good hand of God the great work was completed. 

It will be perceived, by attending to the scriptures, that violent op- 
position was made to this undertaking, from its commencement to its 
completion. A host of opposers rose up against the people of God, 
and the great work which he had directed tobe done. All the arts, 
and threats, and force, which satan and his emissaries could exercise, 
were exerted to weaken the hands of the builders and discourage their 
hearts. 

At length, Sanballat and others, who were rulers in Samaria under 
the Persian monarch, with the design to practise mischief against 
Nehemiah, and to put a period to the building, sent for him to meet 
them at a certain place.. Aware of their wicked purpose, disguised 
under the mask of friendship, Nehemiah sent the reply which we 
have chosen for the theme of this discourse. J am doing a great 
work, so that I cannot come down : why should the work cease, whilst 
I leave it, and come down to you ? 

The work in which christians, and especially christian ministers, are 
engaged, is a work of magnitude. To this great work we shall have 
special reference in the present discourse ; and to this, we shall ac- 
eommodate the passage before us in its connexion, 


12 


Jerusalem may represent thechurch of Christ : the captivity of the 
Jews at Babylon—the captivity of men in a natural state to the god 
of this world : the proclamation of liberty to the captives, by Cyrus— 
the proclamation of liberty to satan’s slaves, by Jesus Christ ; the 
Jews, who were stirred up to return and build Jerusalem—those, who 
are inclined by the Spirit to turn to God and labour on the New Je- 
rusalem : those Jews who staid behind at Babylou—those who = 
the messages of grace, and wwill serve their old 
the work—alhin an biipenitint state, from the ams to = 

«professed disciple who betrays his Lord with a kiss : Nehemjah—the- 
faithful servant of Christ, whose heart is fixed on this great work, who 
trusts in the Lord, aud who will not be interrupted by all the threats 
and force of open enemiesy the arts and intrigues of secret enemies ; 
the counsel and warning of pretended friends. 

It will be our first object to exhibit the characters of some of the ~ 
numerous enemies of this great work. 

Aad, secondly, to point out the duty of those who wish melt spir- 
itual Jeruciles. and especially of her watchmen. 

I. We are to exhibit the characters of some of the numerous ene- 
mies to the building of spirituai Jerusalem. 5 eater 

1, We may notice deists and atheists. These openly make war. 
with God and the Lamb ; and are determined that not one stone 
shali be laid upon aiethce oxi the walls of the spiritual city, if they 
can prevent it. These direct their aim at the very foundation, the 
chief corner stone. 

This class is stnkingly figured to us by the Arabians, the Ammon 
ites and the Ashdodites, who, when they found that the ee 
Jerusalem was progressing, were very wroth, and eon oe 
them together to come and fight against Jerasalem and Ph i 
Nehemiah iv. 8. > Liitle need be said to guard christians against this 
class of enemies. Those, who deny the being of God, or the inspira- 
tion of the scriptures, whatever their mode of attack may be, rey 
manifest under whose banners they fight. new 

2. Another class of opposers to this great work, are those who 
believe part of the Bible, and deny part ; or who profess to believe 
the whole, yet deny some of the doctrines and duties clearly 
revealed. ‘These, in many respects, are worse than et 
infidels) 'The Samaritans were of this cast. Their religion was a 
motley mixture of heathen idolatry and Judaism. Their worship 
was mere mockery. Hence our Lord told the woman of. ee 
Ye worship ye know not what. From the account given of these Sa- 
maritans, both by Ezra aud Nehemiah, it is manifest that they. mere 
most virulent opposers of the building of Jerusalem. 

So we ever find those, who bring the word of God to the standard 
of their own carnal reason and feelings, the .most bitter enemies of 
vital christianity. They hate the doctrines of grace, and more es- 
pecially, when the holy Spirit’ makes these doctrines a means ais 
viving religion, The scribes and pharisees of old, when they 
modelled the word of God by their traditions, were zealous ae 
ers of it ; because, as Christ declared, they had made void the le 
God by their traditions. They bad brought it down to. their 
minds; and, in perfect consistency with their zeal for this a 
religion, they hated the blessed Redeemer and the truth of 


“Wi 


Such characters, in every age, have manifested the most decided hos- 
tility to gospel preaching, and those influences of the Holy Ghost, 
which make it effectual to salvation, 3 

Some of the various methods, which this class, of opposers adopt, to 
hinder this great work, will further illustrate.their character, 

»(1.) To corrupt the truth and ensnare christians, one methiod is, to 
propose aunion. This was tried by the Samaritans, Ezra iv. 2. 
Then they came to Zerubbabel, and to the chief of the fathers, and 
said unto them, Let us build with you: for we seek your God as ye 
do: and we do sacrifice unto him, since the days of Esar-haddon, 
king of Assur, which brought us up hither. This deep-laid stratagem 
is often tried, by mock-christians, to introduce heresy, divide the 
builders, and prevent the work, Pharisees and Herodians attempted, 
in this way, to ensnare the Lord Jesus. Matt. xxii. 16. We know 
that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest 
thou for any man ; for thou regardest not the person of men. In 
this insidious way, corrupt doctrines, subversive of the scheme of 
grace, were introduced among the Galatians ; as is evident, from 
Paul’s epistle to them. This is a device, which has often been suc- 
cessfully tried, to weaken the hands of the spiritual builders, and 
retard this great work, 

Satan cares not how much false religion there is; nor, if it be but 
false, how near it approaches to the true. His ends are answered, 
however decent, civil and moral the external deportment may be; 
provided, the doctrines of grace are corrupted, and the sinner’s heart 
not changed, . 

(2.) Another artifice is, to raise. evil reports against this great work 
and the workmen. The Samaritans tried this scheme, to prevent 
the rebuilding of Jerusalem. 'They-represented it, as a rebellious 
city—hired counsellors against the people to frustrate their purpose— 
wrote to the king of Persia, that the Jews strengthened themselves— 
that, if allowed to build the city, they would cast off the yoke—would 
not pay tribute—would dishonour the king, &c. See Ezra iv. 4—16, 

So, respecting the great spiritual work of grace, how many evil 
reports are spread ! When God, by the effusions of his Spirit, ac- 
companies the plain, distinguishing doctrines of the gospel, to the 
awakening, conviction and conversion of sinners ; how are the advo~ 
cates of this work stigmatized ? They are represented, as destroying 
the peace of society—eradicating moral obligation—opening the 
flood-gates of iniquity—turning the world upside down—dishonour- 
ing the King of heaven, &e. &e.. 

These and the like evil reports are circulated, by Samaritan chris- 

_tians, against those, who would have spiritual Jerusalem built, on the: 
foundation of the aposties and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being 
the chief corner stone. And at the same time, that they are sapping 
the very foundation of the spiritual city, they will profess great con- 
cern for the honour of God; great anxiety, lest he should receive 
detriment; lest his name and his cause should be reproached. 

(3.) Those, who bring the word of God to the standard of their 
carual mind, often despise and ridicule this great work, and scoff at 

se, who are engaged init. The Samaritans took this ground, to 

event the rebuilding of Jerusalem, Nehemiah ii, 19, They 
sughed us ta scorn and despised us, and said, What is this thing, 


14 


outils ye do ? Will ye rebel against the king 2? Again, Nehemiah 

2,3, What do these feeble Jews ? Will they fortify themselves ? 
they sacrifice ? Will they make an end in_a day? Will they revi 
the stones out of the heaps of rubbish ?—Even that, which they 
if a fox goup, he shall even break down their stone wall. In'li 
"manner, is the great work, which God is carrying on, by the as 
of his Spirit, and by means of gospel preaching, ridiculed, - a 
servants despised. Even when Jesus was laying the foundati 
this building, in his precious blood, there were 8 alte sul > 
the cross, and insulting the dying ‘Redeemer. There were 
on the day of Pentecost, «hen the Lord blessed the pungent p 
ing of Peter, to the conversion of multitudes, This spirit continue 
and manifests itself, wheuever there is a reformation. This 
work is ridiculed, as a temporary business; the effect of e 
fanaticism soon to terminate; and its advocates, as enthusi 
babblers. Thus, when the work of the Lord prospers, its enemies 
would check its progress, and discourage its friends, with a sneer, 
which bat illy conceals their indignation and extreme anxiety. 

(4.) If other plans do not succeed, the class of opposers, which we 
are contemplating, will take more decisive steps against _ work, 
Herein, they resemble the Samaritans. When Sanballat a ‘others 
found, that the walls of Jerusalem were nearly completed, they were 
yery wroth, and conspired all of them together, to hinder it by rel 4 
They sent out their threats, and especially, against Nehemiah, that 


they would come down, in the night, and slay him. : 
3. Another class of opposers, to 9 the spirit and power of religion, are: 
mere formal professors. These are dangerous enemies. As they are 


among the disciples, they have a name to live; but. no heart to put a 
helping hand to this great work. We may “distinguish these i 
two classes. | Those who are opposed to the leading doctrines of 
gospel ; and those who are immoral in their conduct. As it f i 
the former, they will listen to those without, who anaes ore 
truth, and join with them. 

There were many of the Jews, who retufned from Baby on, n, wbase 
hearts were not in favour of building Jerusalem. They listened 
the stories of the Samaritans, and hited with them, in Dapeng de 
great work which their brethren had undertakeh, by God’s direction 
and influence. It isa great acquisition, to the strength of the world, 
to have some of the professed disciples of Jesus, on their side—it i 
perplexing, to the weak in faith—it is discouraging, to all = 
of Zion. Persons, of this description, will have a most solemn ac 
to give, at the bar of God, for taking his covenant into their mou 
while their hearts were far from him. 

‘The second class of enemies, under this head, are immoral profes- 
sors. The great Head of the church requires not only soundnes in 
the faith, but purity of heart and hfe. The church is, asa e 
set on a hill, which cannot be hid. ‘The enemies of religion are vig 
lant, to find, something to confirm the evil reports which they h 
circulated against christians, They want to find some scan 
immoralities, in individual members, by which, they may character 
the whole body. To the joy of their souls, and the grief of th 
who love the Lord, they sometimes do find such persons. T 
whatev er their sentiments may be, and whatever their hopes 


15 


have not the marks of God’s children ; but, must be ranked with 
opposers of this great work. There were many, among the Jews, 
whose gross immoralities were a grief to the pious ; these were sharp- 
ly reproved by Nehemiah, and, on their account, solemn seasons of 
prayer were observed. 

‘4, There were seasons when the Jews, who returned from captivity 
to rebuild Jerusalem, were disheartened. Though they were desirous 
to have the city and temple built, they had lost that zeal and ener- 

y, which were necessary to carry on the work. 

This brings to view, the most formidable enemies of the christian 
cause—the enemies within. ‘* The jiesh lusteth against the spirit, 
and the spirit against the fiesh, and these are contrary the one to the 
other.” When the hearts of christians are discouraged, so that they 
relinquish this great work, the flesh has gained the ascendency. Spii- 
q Se : J 
itual Jerusalem is in the greatest danger, when her children cease to 
labour, watch and pray. : . 

Which ieads us, as was proposed, 

Ii. To point out the duty of those, who wish well to spiritual Je- 
tasalem, and especially of her watchmen. And, 

1. They should realize, that this is a great and good work. Nehe- 
miah considered the building of Jerusalem, a great work. It was so. 
It was preparing a place for the worship of God ; for the security and 
peace of his people. 

How great, then, is the work of the gospel ministry! The design 

_ of this is, to edify the people of God in the most holy faith ; to bring 
sinners to repentance and the acknowledgment of the truth. This 
work is to prepare a seed te serve Christ and inherit his heavenly 
kingdom. In this, angels rejoice ; the Redeemer sees of the travail 
of his soul ; the Triune God is glorified. Paul counted it an honour, 
that he was put into the ministry. Aad to Timothy he writes, This 
is a true saying, if aman desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a 
good work. To stimulate Zion’s friends to unremitted exertions for 
her prosperity, let them realize the great, good, honourable, interest- 
ing nature of this work. 

2. Inu order to faithful and syccessful labours in the ministry, the 
servants of Christ must feel their own insufficiency, and their de- 
pendence on God. Men may try their own strength and skill in this 
great work, but God will confound their language and their schemes, 
and Babel will be the result, Peter’s sad fall contains a solemn cau- 
tion against a self-confident, self-sufficient spirit. Human nature is 
essentially the same in all; and God declares, Cursed is man that 
trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm. 

A sense of insufficieucy and a humbie reliance 6n God, are essential 
qualifications for a faithful servant of Christ. 1t is God whe calls 

is ministers, prepares them for the work, and crowns their labours 

th success. 

This is a truth which the great apostle of the Gentiles realized, and 
often expressed. 1 Cor. xv. 10, But by the grace of God I am what 
Lam: and his grace whick was bestowed upon me was not in vain ; 

t I laboured more abundanily than they all; yet not I but the 

ce of God which was with me. 2 Cor. i. 16. And whois sufficient 
or these things 2 Apd chap, iii. 5, 6, Not that we are sufficient of 


16 


ourselves to think any thing as ‘of ourselves, but our su 


God, who aiso hath made us able ministers of the New Testament. 
Zerubbabel, Ezra and Nehemiah, who were ype te bos eo 4 

characters in the great work of rebuilding Jerusalem, realized, that 

the Lord stirred them up, encouraged, strengthened and “qualified 

them by his good hand, which was upon them, 9 
3. Ministers should be sensible, that they are not alone in this — 
work. ~ All good men are contributing to forward it. | sters of — 
the gospel, like Nehemiah, are called to lead in the b buts — 
dit tines many helpers, mavy who are daily labouring an i ying 
r- nt 


for the establishment and peace of spiritual Jerusalem. 
All the angels in heaven are on their'side.” Heb. i, 14, Are they — 
not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them, who shall 
be heirs of salvation? These are powerful beings. What havoc did - 
a single angel make in the host of Assyria, in one night ! He slew a : 
hundred and eighty-five thousand! The holy angels are’ not oat 8 
powerful, bat vastly numerous; and all on the side of God's ser- i 
vants and people. a PPI 
Further, for the encouragement of ministers, Jehovah a ” 
engaged in this great work. He is not only “encouraging and 
=ticgaeiernete his A le to proceed with their labour ; eae 1s) 
angels to assist them ; bat: also, he himself, is with them. att. 
xxvill, 20, Lo, Jam with you alway, even unto the end of the world. ‘ 
Realizing these things, may not the ministers of Christ proceed with 
alacrity ia their work, extlaiming, If God be for'us, who can be 
against us ? so aay inlays. 
4. The servants of Christ, who desire that this great work should 
prosper, must be much engeged in prayer. God is et 4 to instruct, 
guide, encourage and strengihen his people, if they ask. Luke xi. 


13, If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts he Wely s 
eb nye 


é 


children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give t 
Spirit to them that ask him. lib 
The success of ministers’ labours is depending 6n the divine bless=_ 
ing. Said Paul, I have planted and Apollos watered, but God ave , 
the increase. And the Lord deciayed by the prophet, I wll yet for 
this, be inquired of by the house of Israel, to do it for them. ~~ 
Ezra and Nehemiah, considering the magnitude of the wo 
which they were engaged, convoked the people, and spent 
seasons of pubhie fasting and prayer. “Besides these’ seasons, ; 
often poured out their souls to God, in their private “reads . 
Of how much more importawce is the spiritual city | An in 
eumbent is it on every wise master builder, to spend much time at" om! 
the throne of grace ! , ao ten deer 
5. Those, who are carrying on the great work of the gospel minis- 
try, must be diligent ; must not suffer themselves to be interrupted, 
Some of the schemes of the enemies of religion, to prevent the dili- 
gence, faithfulness and success of Christ’s servants, we have exhibi 
ed. And also, that these servants have dangerous foes within—t 
own remaining corruptions. He who would be successful, mu 
watchful; must be diligent in the Lord’s business, and unde 
none of satan’s. Nehemiah would not be diverted from his wor 
Surely, then, nothing ought to interrupt the christian minister. _ 


17 

Let me inquire of the Lord’s servants ;_ will you leave your great 
work, because the enemies of God and religion scoff at you ? Similar 
characters, we have seen, scoffed at Ezra and Nehemiah ; but this 
did not hinder them. The antideluvians undoubtedly made sport of 
Noah ; but he proceeded and built the ark. The Jewsand others in- 
sulted Immanuel in his last agomes; but, he finished his great work. 
There were some who mocked, on the memorable day of Pentecost ; 
but this did not hinder the preaching of the apostles, nor the sub- 
sequent effusions of the Holy Ghost. Paul, when preaching the gos- 
pel, was called a babbler ; but he did not, on this account, cease to 
babble. Having these illustrious examples before them, the true 
servants of Jesus will imitate them. : 

Wil you cease from your labours, because the wicked rail, and rage, 
and*threaten ? No: you will not regard them, except with pity, and 
prayers for their reformation. 

Will you be allured from this great work by the amusements, 
pleasures or employments of this world? No: the servant of Christ 
has a higher calling, business of infinite importarce, and is charg- 
ed to give himself wholly to it. 

Do sinners misrepresent the doctrines of grace and christian expe- 
riences? And do they draw alarming inferences, from the plain 
truths, which the Lord requires his servants to preach ? The servants 
of Christ should simply let them know, that their controversy is with 
God, and contiaue in their great work. 

Nehemiah had four messages to go and hold a conference with San- 
ballat and others. He answered, I am doing a great work, so that 
I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and 
come down to you? An open letter was.next sent, desiring him to 
come and take counsel with them ; for there were such and such re- 
ports circulated about him. Nehemiah replied, There are no such 
things done as thou sayest ; but thou feignest them out of thine own 
heart. He was too well acquainted with the Samaritans, to be alarm- 
ed by their misrepresentations and falsehoods ; or to wish for their 
counsel. 

Ministers of Christ ought to be as well acquainted with tempo- 
rizing christians, These often profess amazing solicitude for those, 
who contend for the distinguishing doctrines of the gospel, and vital 
piety. And, after they have jomed in fabricating and spreading evil 
reports, they would fain coansel and warn the contenders for the faith, 
to be more cautious and prudent. ' 

But, let christian ministers remember, that they are doing a great 
work ; that God’s word and Spirit are sufficient for their direction ; 
and that they have no leisure to attend to, and no disposition to follow 
the maxims of prudence, which the enemies of God’s word and work 
suggest. 

Suppose they are told by their pretended friends, that their prop- 
erty, their place, or even their lives are in danger, if they continue 
their work ; and that it becomes them to provide for their own secu- 
rity. Nehemiah was persuaded by a prophet, in whom he had placed 
confidence, to leave his work and shut himself up in the temple. 
For, said he, they will come and slay thee ; yea, inthe night will they 
come and slay thee. The heroic reply of Nehemiah should be adopt- 
ed by every servant of Jesus, in like circumstances, Should sucha 
man as I flee ? Cc 


ui ee 

6. Christian ministers, who would proceed vigorously in their 
great work, must put on the whole armour of God, and commence 
soldiers, And they are authorised to direct all who would forward 
the work, to build with their weapons in their hands. Nehemiah 
and the Jews, for a time, did thus ; and their enemies were afraid to 
attack them. ‘The weapons of the christian warfare are of a different 
kind, not carnal, but spiritual ; yet they are mighty through God, 
not only against the powers of earth, but also of hell. See Eph. vi. 
10—19. With this armour the servants of the Lord should always 
be equipped, and stand prepared, either to defend themselves, or at- 
tack their enemies. Were those, who wish well to Zion, to take such 
a position, her foes would either be intimidated and give up the con- 
test, or hurl their fiery darts in vain. ' ’ 

INFERENCES. 

1. The great work, on which we have been discoursing, will be 
completed. The church is founded on a rock, and Christ has said, 
The gates of hell shall not prevail against it. All the opposition of 
men and devils will not prevent Jehovah’s accomplishing, by his 
word and Spirit, that which he pleaseth. The eleet of God will be 
called in, and kept by his power, through faith unto salvation. Ina 
word, we have seen that Gop is engaged in this great work ; a regu- 
lar inference is, It will be accomplished. 

2. By this subject, christians are severely reproved. How sloth- 
ful, how negligent are the generality of professed disciples ! How 
prone to be diverted from their proper employment, to he couformed 
to this world! The conduct of Nehemiah and others reproves us. 
Let us take warning—let us turn at God’s reproof, that we may 
escape the more severe chastisement of his rod. : 

3. In the light of this subject, opposers of this great work may 
see that their cause is desperate. Their controversy is with God. 
And, though for wise and holy reasons, he may allow them some 
temporary and partial successes, they must eventually fall. And, 
even while Zion’s foes are triumphing, the great work is advancing, 
and God is using these very foes to advance it. They are rods, with 
which he scourges his people for their sluggishness. They are made 
instruments, in exciting the people of God to watchfulness, diligence 
and prayer. Drowsy christians are roused up from their spiritual 
slumbers and brought into action. A distinction is made between 
tares and wheat; and all classes of people have their attention ex- 
cited, to know, what is truth. Psalm Ixxvi. 10. Surely the wrath of 
man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain. 
Thus, the weapons of satan and his agents are turned against them- 
selves. The more the people of God were afflicted in Egypt, the 
more they multiplied and grew. The foes of this work, in taking the 
life of Christ, intended to subvert his religion ; but this was the very 
method appointed of God to establish it. ‘The more the church was 
persecuted, in apostolic times, the more it flourished—the greater 
trials the apostles experienced, the more bold and zealous they were 
in preaching the gospel. Vain, as well as impious are the attempts 
of the wicked—they will be defeated—and except they repent they 
will all likewise perish. 


19 


_ Finally, let us apply the subject to the present solemn and inter- 
esting occasion. 

Our Brother in the ministry, whose installation we are about to at- 
tend, will feel the propriety of our applying this subject to him. 

Dear Sir, you are not unacquainted with the magnitude of the work, 
which, by the great Head of the church, is committed to gospel minis~ 
ters. You have been solemnly inducted into ofice—have taken part 
of this great work, and have had abundant evidence that your labour 
has not been in vain,in the Lord. You have experienced of late 
sore perplexities and trials: we trust also, that the grace of God has 
abounded for your consolation and comfort. Will the Lord grant, 
that the things, which have taken place among this people, may turn 
out for the furtherance of the gospel. May your personal trials, in- 
stead of discouraging, render you more bold, zealous and faithful in 
declaring the counsel of God. Your experience in the ministry, for 
almost twenty six years, precludes the necessity of much being said 
by a younger brother. With the arduous nature of this work you are 
acquainted ; also with the high responsibility of those, who undertake 
it. Ministers are te watch for souls, as those who must give an ac- ~ 
count. You will pray sinners, in Christ’s stead, to be reconciled to 
God—you will labour to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of 
peace among christians. In the strength of the Lord, dear brother, 
take courage ; proceed in your work with unabated ardour ; and will 
the King in Zion grant you to see his pleasure prospering in your 
hands. 

The church, and the society lately associated with it, claim our 
next attention. We rejoice in the firm persuasion that the prayers 
of this church have been heard, for the continuance of their beloved 
Pastor. We rejoice, that the hearts of so many, who are not of this 
body, have been inclined to associate with it. We congratulate you 
on the unanimity which has marked your late proceedings, and that 
you are this day to behold the accomplishment of your desires, We 
pray God, that no root of bitterness springing up may trouble you, 
Remember that not only ministers, but all men should be engaged 
in the great work, on which we have been discoursing, It is incum- 
bent on you to encourage the heart, and strengthen the hands of your 
minister. Let him experience your friendly, kind and liberal atten- 
tion. Pray for him, that he may be faithful; and that Ged would 
make him instrumental in establishing and comforting his children, 
and convincing and converting sinners. To God, we commend you, 
and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and give 
you an inheritance among all them that are sanctified: 

Finally, this is a solemn season to all present. The transactions of 
this day, and all the transactions of our lives will be disclosed at the 
day of judgment. Let us then lay aside every weight, and run with 
patience the race which is set before us, looking to Jesus the author 
and finisher of our faith, 


THE CHARGE,* 
GIVEN BY REY. NOBLE EVERITT: = 


Dear brethren and friends ; we rejoice at the union and affection 
which appear so remarkably to ctl among you, which have led to 
the solemn transactions of this day, affording bright prospects to the 
lovers of Zion, of the adyancement of the glorious cause of Christ, 
among this afflicted church and people ;*trusting that your prayers 
have ascended to the throne of grace, and received an answer of peace ; 
and that you are, by the great Head of the church, prepared to receive, 
joyfully, so great a blessing, as, we trust, he is now about to confer on ~ 
you ; not of earthly possessions and wealth ; but the confirmation of 
oue set over you in the Lord, who shall feed the sheep and lambs of 
the flock, and break to you the bread of life. a . 

And now, in conformity with the result of the Council, dear broth- 
er, Jonathan Burr, we install you over this flock, consisting of the 
first Congregational Church in Sandwich and the Calvinistic Society 
associated with it. 

We therefore charge you, before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, 
who shall judge the quick and the dead, at his appearing, and his 
kiagdom,—Preach the word, be instant in season, out of season ; re- 
prove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. For the 
time has come, when many, who profess Christ before men, will not 
endure sound doctrine.—But watch thou in all things, endure afflic. 
tions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. 

Take heed to: yourse!f —Consider that you have an immortal soul 
of more real value than all the material universe ; and, that were there 
nothing of more importance to call your attention, that alone is suffi- 
cient to engage your utmost solicitude for its salvation, from your 
earliest existence, to the close of your mortal life. Therefore, on that 
account alone, we may, with propriety, charge you to keep your 
body under, and bring it into subjection ; and in all thiags, to liye 
according to the precepts of the gospel, knowing that your eternal 
state of happiness or wo depends on the character you form in this, 
state of probation. How awful'must it be, after you have preached, 
and preached the truth to others, for you yourself to beg cast-away ! 
To be cast away for want of love to those all important truths, which, 
you have clearly exhibited to others ! 

But, beloved brether, we hope better things of you, and things that _ 
accompany salvation, though we thus speak, 

Still we may enjoin these things on you from more powerful mo-. 
tives than the salvation of your own soul : the salvation of the souls 
of those who hear you, taken colleetively, is far more important, than 
your own eternal well-being. ‘Therefore, take heed to yourself.— 
And let your good example be set, not only before those, over whom 


* The Charge was delivered extempore, and is perhaps varied in some 
expressions, 


21 


the Holy Ghost hath made you an overseer, who are looking to you 
as their teacher, by example as well as by precept; but also before 
those who are without, even those who are the enemies of the cross of 
Christ, for they are watching for your halting. 

Take heed to the flock over which you are an overseer. Think of 
the worth of their immortal souls ; and let a solemnsense thereof lie 
much on your mind. Shun not to declare the whole counsel of God, 
to your hearers, saints and sinners. Hold up before them plainly the 
way of reconciliation with God, and those important truths, which 
are most disagreeable to corrupt nature. Such truths are wonderful- 
ly calculated to do honour to the Great Head of the Church, and are 
the principal things which all the ministers of Christ ought to have in 
view, in all their preaching to their hearers: for his honour infinitely 
outweighs all other considerations ; and we may observe also that the 
same preaching which is best caleulated to honour God, is best cal- 
culated to save those who hear. 

Be entreated to consider that you and all other ministers of Christ 
must appear at his bar, with all their hearers. And awful for un- 
faithful ministers to meet those of their charge, at the left hand of 
their Judge, who have lost their own souls, and have been the occa- 
sion of the eternal perdition of many of their hearers ! 

Ob, how can a poor condemned minister bear the keen reproaches 
of his lost hearers ! “ You never faithfully warned me of this place of 
torment and endless wo /’ Oh, who can describe or even conceive the 
wretchedness of such a lost minister, to be forever upbraided by his 
miserable hearers, both sinking under the inconceivable weight of 
God's wrath in eternal despair ! 

But on the other hand, how joyful and blessed will be the meeting 
of those, who are found faithful to God, their own souls and the souls 
of those who haye been their hearers, and with them made partakers 
of the boundless grace of God ! ye 

On that joyful occasion, the faithful mimister may say, Lord, be- 
hold here am [ and these dear trophies of thy rich grace; who have 
been turned from sin to righteousness, through the instrumentality of 
such a worthless creature as I am ! 

How joyful then to hear the approbation of his Judge, Well done 
thou good and faithful servant ; thou hast been faithful over a few 
things, I will make thee ruler over many things, enter thou mio the 
joy of thy Lord. How delightful must it be to be accompanied by a 
goodly number of his dear people, whe will freely join with him in 
ascribing ‘alk the glory of their salvation, to the Sacred THREE forev- 

erandever, AMEN. 


~_ 


* 


w 


—— 


a eaten 


Ee re 


be 4, 


RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP, 


BY REV. HENRY LINCOLN, OF FALMOUTH. __ 


3 ' ‘ 

*« Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell, - 
together in unity.” The happy union of christians, which peculiar-— 
ly marks their characters, is formed and cemented by love, which re-— 
stores and preserves the image of God within the soul ; for ** God is 
love, and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him,” - 
and by this shall all men know that we are the disciples of Jesus 
Christ. This is ** the fulfilling of the law, the bond of perfectness” 
—and that sacred indissoluble cord, which binds the souls of God’s 
children together. This is necessary to form the union, and preserve) 
the fellowship of the churches. There is no other tie butmay bebro- 
ken ; but by this, christians are all one in Jesus Christ, and * as live- [ 
ly stones are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer 
up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”,—There 
is no stability to form without this power. It is this, which brings 
christians to realize one great common interest in Christ, to be pre- 
served and cherished at the expense of every subordinate object—. 
which connects ministers and people together in the closest union, so 
that when ** one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or, « 
one member is honoured, all the members rejoice with it.”—It is this" 
which leads us mutually to counsel, support and comfort ove another 
amidst all the evils of this inhospitable world, to ** bear one another’s 
burthens,” and thus to * fulfil the law of Christ.”—For the revival, - 
increase and support of this we are wholly dependent on divine influ- 
ences. Should we not then be very thankful that the Lord has been - 
pleased to grant a plenteous out-pouring of his holy Spirit, hereby to 
warm our hearts, to strengthen our minds, to confirm our union, and 
to prepare us for those seasons of affliction, which are for the trial of , 
our faith, and the exercise of our patience ? We rejoice this dayto 
see its happy effects ; and that God has been pleased to preserve our 
beloved brother and this dear church, in the sharpest seasons of trial, 
from discouragement, from dissolution and dispersion, in mutual con- * 
fidence and love.—As external circumstances may have rendered it a 
expedient, we are pleased that this day our sister church has renewed 
her request, that her dear pastor should still remain with them, and 
that the Lord has disposed his heart to listen to her propose er. 
currence with this newly associated Society. United in the same 
common faith, and as we humbly trust, heirs together of the grace of 
God, and interested for the prosperity of Zion, we, the brethren of ; 
sister churches, have here convened to join with you in our prayers and 
counsels, to testify our fellowship with you in behalf of our brethren, 
and to assist in your establishment, according to the faith and order $ 
of the gospel. Between the ministers and churches of our common 
Lord, there is a mystical union and holy love subsisting, which the 
world knoweth not of, and their christian fellowship is expressed as 
circumstances may require. On occasions like the present, it is usual, — 
according to apostolic example, to testify the fellowship of the churches 
by giving the right hand, and on me this solemn office has now 
devolved.— 


—_ 


23 


Beloved brother in the Lord, in the name of the ecclesiasticai 
council here convened, give me leave then to tender to you the right 
hand of fellowship. By this we testify to you our approbation of 
your faith, and confidence in your abilities and disposition, as a min~ 
ister of Christ to preach the gospel, and to “feed the church of 
GOD, which he hath purchased with his own blood.”—We hereby 
salute you in the Lord, and declare to you our christian fellowship 
and Jove for you and “ all the flock ever which the Holy Ghost hath 
made you overseer.” We hereby express to you our readiness ever 
to assist you with our prayers, our counsels, and our labours ; and in 
all seasons of trial, persecution and affliction, to take an affectionate 
part with you in the all-important interests of our common Lord and 
Master. Go on, dear brother, in the strength of the Lord, and in the 
power of his might, faithful in duty, patient in sufferings, and firm 
under trials, encouraged with the blessed promise, ‘* be thou faithful 
unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” 

For more than twenty-three years, dear brother, we have been in- 
dulged the happy privilege of living together in the ministry, in unin- 
terrupted harmony and love. We have to lament that the former 
part of this period has been a season of great darkness, coldness and 
declension in the churches. But, blessed be God, he has at length 
lifted upon us the light of his countenance, poured out his quick- 
ening and enlivening Spirit upon the dear people of our charge, and 
we have lived to see a day of the great Redeemer’s power and love. 
In this we have rejoiced, yea, and we will rejoice. Under your 
faithful ministry, may the Lord continue to enlarge the borders of 
his Zion here, that, when called by death from your holy office, you 
may be enabled to say, ** Lord, now let thou thy servant depart in 
peace, for mine eyes have seen thy salvation.” 

As a reciprocal expression of your love for us and ours in the com- 
mon faith, we now expect from you, dear brother, in return, the right 
hand of fellowship ; hereby expressing to us your undissembled love 
and readiness with your dear church to afford us, at all times and ir 
all seasons, your prayers, and to assist us by your counsels and your 
labours in building up the blessed cause of our common Lord and 
Master.—May we be “fellow-helpers of each other’s joy.”—The 
Lord direct that you, your dear church and people may be lasting 
blessings to each other—give you many souls as seals to your min- 
istry, and, when he who is the believer’s life shall appear, enable you 
and all of us to give up our account with joy. Then may we hear 
this blessed plaudit of our Judge, “* Well done, good and faithful 
servants, ye have been faithful over a few things, I will make you 
rulers oyer many things, enter ye into the joy of your Lerd.” 


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